You have probably heard that this root vegetable is very healthy. But, since it is not common across the US, you also probably have never eaten it.
That is the mystical Jicama.
Good thing this Latin American tuber is slowly gaining popularity. So what is exactly a Jicama and can it be shared with your four-legged furry best friend?
Can Dogs Safely Eat Jicama?
Jicama can be considered a superfood because it is fiber-enriched, loaded with micronutrients and low in calories. Given those, dogs can definitely enjoy this yummy treat!
But also read along the article to check if there are risks eating Jicama.
What is Jicama?
Since Jicama is quite not popular in Western households, let’s get to know this amazing root vegetable.
Jicama, pronounced as Hee-ka-ma, is often described as an ugly turnip because of its thick, brown skin. The flesh of a Jicama is white inside and its starchy texture tastes like a water chestnut or an apple with tamed sweetness.
Scientifically, it is known as Pachyrhizus erosus which in Greek means thick root. Commonly, it goes by the name Mexican potato, Mexican turnip and Mexican yam, even if it is not technically a yam because it is part of the bean family.
This tuberous root, native mostly in Mexico and in Central America, grows in vines, unlike other root vegetables!
In these areas, it is commonly sold by street vendors, served raw and seasoned with fruit juices or spices like lemon or lime juice and even chili powder. Sometimes it is also served in soups and stir fry dishes, eaten like potato fries and even topped on salads.
Here are also some cool trivia about Jicama:
- Jicama has become an addition to pet food because it is rich in dietary fiber and a great source of inulin, prebiotic aiding digestion.
- Jicamas have been widely spread since the 17th century in the Asia Pacific including the Philippines and Malaysia.
- Mature seeds of a Jicama plant have significant levels of rotenone, an insecticide that is even used for commercial purposes. Not only are the mature seeds poisonous, but also the vines, roots and beans.
Benefits of Jicama for Dogs
Jicama is super healthy food for your dog’s diet and here are some of the vitamins and nutrients this humble tuber poses:
● High in dietary fiber – a 120 g cup of Jicama is equal to 6 grams to dietary fiber essential in keeping the dog’s digestive system up and running. If they also have digestive problems or diarrhea, research shows that it can be improved by 30%, thanks to this root vegetable. The fiber in Jicama also helps keep the dog’s blood sugar steady and also keeps their blood cholesterol levels at bay.
● Source of inulin – as mentioned, it is prebiotic that aids in dog’s digestion and 100 g of it has 4.9 g of inulin. Because prebiotics decreases bad bacteria, it promotes good gut health and will work wonders for those who are constipated. This unique soluble fiber also promotes bone health and increases mineral absorption, as proven in several studies. Not only that, but prebiotics also decreases a dog’s risk for kidney disease, obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
● Full of antioxidants – coming from vitamins C, E, and minerals such as selenium and beta carotene and they all help fight cell damage caused by free radicals; these harmful molecules lead to oxidative stress. Antioxidant-rich foods reduce the risk of health disorders linked to oxidative stress such as cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cognitive brain disorders.
This is a great benefit since 50% of canines suffer from cancer when they are 10 years old and above.
● Loads of Potassium and Copper – because Jicama also has significant amounts of potassium, it reduces blood pressure. Copper in Jicama also allows better circulation of blood within the dog’s body.
With all those benefits, here is the recap of Jicama’s benefit to your dog’s body:
- Boosts heart health
- Promotes good gut health
- Decreases risk of cancer
Jicama is also great for dogs that are overweight and might be suffering from a pancreatic or diabetic diet because it is low in calories and fats.
Risks of Eating Jicama
Remember that the only part of Jicama that the dog can eat is the root bulb or the white part only.
The rest of it is toxic and should not be anywhere near your dogs such as the seeds, stem, or leaves. These components of Jicama contain a toxic compound called rotenone which is used as commercial pesticides.
Although in the local market, only the edible parts of Jicama are sold. So this is only a caution when you grow Jicama in your backyard.
How Can I Feed My Dog Jicama?
Jicama is indeed a great treat for your pooch. Below is a few guides before sharing some with them:
Introducing Jicama to Dog’s Diet
When introducing something new to your dog’s diet, make sure to do it slowly at first. Give them a few bites only and check if they do not exhibit any adverse effects like loose stools or vomiting.
If you notice any bad reaction, seek the health of the vet right away. But if there is none and they seem to be enjoying it, go ahead and share it in moderation.
Preparing Jicama for Dogs
Jicama can be shared with dogs either raw or cooked.
Before sharing some, make sure that the skin is peeled and only the white flesh remains. Make sure also to cut the flesh into bite-sized pieces or in the famous sticks!
Dog-approved Serving Ideas for Jicama
Cooking the Jicama is still the best option for dogs. Since they are carnivores, their body is not designed to digest vegetables and fruits so do them a favor. Due to the high fiber content of Jicama, it is also best to serve it cooked.
When cooking the diced Jicamas, make sure not to add any seasoning that might be bad for them such as salt, pepper, garlic, onions, butter or sugar.
It is also a great option to mash it. With this, it can be sprinkled alongside their regular dog food.
How Much Jicama Can Dogs Eat?
As a general rule, no matter how healthy it is, moderation should always be practiced. Besides, Jicama is too fibrous to be eaten in large amounts so it must only be 10% of their total diet.
Bear in mind that dogs do not really need fruits and vegetables in their diet since their high-quality kibble should complete all the nutrients they need. So consider Jicama only as a treat, given in moderation to your dog.
Conclusion: Give Dogs Eat Jicama?
Yes, definitely. Jicama is a good addition to your dog’s diet. Just make sure that you only feed them the white, flesh part since other components of Jicama are poisonous.
Make sure to prepare it in bite-sized pieces also and preferably served cooked.
Cheers to a healthy long life to your furry best bud.
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